You may find that one or both of your feet become numb, tingly or painful some distance into a long or regular run. Nerve and numbness issues are relatively common problems for regular runners and have many possible causes and solutions. According to MayoClinic.com, numbness in the foot -- also known as metatarsalgia -- can be caused by the act of running itself or by a range of medical problems or other considerations.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is one possible cause of foot numbness while running. According to MedlinePlus.com, this syndrome is caused by swelling or fluid buildup in different "compartments" of muscles in your body. This swelling may be provoked by an injury or trauma, such as a vehicle accident, or may be induced over time by a repetitive action such as that involved in running. Compartment syndrome most commonly manifests in the lower leg or forearm, but it is also possible to experience the syndrome in other body parts, including the foot.
Morton's Neuroma
If the nerve problems you experience while running are focused around the ball of your foot -- especially between the third and fourth toes -- this may be a sign of Morton's neuroma. This is a condition in which one of the nerves connecting to your toes experiences a thickening of the surrounding tissue. According to MayoClinic.com, Morton's neuroma typically causes numbness, stinging or burning in the toes and ball of the foot. Arch supports, specialist footwear, corticosteroid injections and surgery are some treatment options for this condition.
Diabetes
If you have diabetes -- whether your condition is already diagnosed or as yet unknown -- it is common to experience issues with nerve pain, numbness or poor circulation to the feet. MedlinePlus.com reports that diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your body -- known as diabetic neuropathy. If you have a diabetes diagnosis, you can alleviate some of the symptoms of neuropathy by controlling your blood sugar, quitting smoking, following a daily foot-care schedule and having your feet examined by a medical professional at least twice per year.
Prevention/Solution
Nerve problems can occur during running without any of the above-mentioned medical problems necessarily being present. You might experience numbness or other nerve symptoms in your feet due to shoes that are too tight or too narrow, or if there is insufficient space in the toe box of your shoes, according to Cool Running. Wearing thinner socks will give you extra space in your shoes. It is also important to stretch thoroughly before and after running, as muscles in your calves and lower leg have the potential to contribute to nerve symptoms in your feet.
Warning
If nerve problems in your feet are a continuing problem for you during running, it is important to see a medical professional. Your own health care provider can diagnose the likely cause of your nerve problems and recommend specific treatment or therapy for the problem.
